What is Emotionally Focused​ Couples Therapy?

EFT is a collaborative, structured approach to working with couples, families and individuals that fosters the creation of secure relationship bonds. It is an affirming, caring, supportive way to get out of the 'stuck places' we all get into.

The EFT approach facilitates couples to move from distress to loving reconnection by transforming negative patterns of interaction into safe emotional connection. Based on the science of emotions and attachment theory as well as humanistic and systemic theories, EFT has a high success rate in achieving secure, resilient relationships in couples.

EFT increases a couple’s ability to deal with conflict, helps them resolve old problems, and creates a deeper sense of emotional, physical and sexual intimacy and safety. Many couples have 8-20 sessions but it is not a quick fix for relationship problems, EFT offers consistent and lasting positive change. ​

If you would like to know more theory about EFT - here is a video of Dr. Sue Johnson, the primary developer of EFT, describing in more detail what Emotionally Focused Therapy is.

And in this video an EFT colleague, Sharon Mead, shares a lighthearted introduction to one of the key elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy for anyone who wants to improve their relationship and start toward a lasting and secure bond.

In the video below, Dr. Sue Johnson (EFT’s principal researcher) talks about adult love relationships, what scientists are learning about adult love, and how EFT uses scientific findings to help couples heal their relationships. It is well worth the 15 minutes it takes to watch it.